Irvine to outline ASIO's protective role

As the federal government pushes ahead with new security laws, the head of Australia's domestic security agency will discuss his role in protecting against violent extremists.

David Irvine, director-general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) will address the National Press Club in Canberra on Wednesday on "Diligence in the shadows - ASIO's responsibility".

It comes as the government drafts laws aimed at addressing concerns about the number of Australians fighting and providing support for the extremist Islamic State in Syria and Iraq.

This will be one of Mr Irvine's final public appearances.

The veteran diplomat and former head of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service retires on September 14.

He hands Australia's top security job to Duncan Lewis, a diplomat, former government national security adviser, defence department secretary and special forces soldier.